Scriptures:
Isaiah 9:6
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Ephesians 2:17
He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near.
Luke 2:14
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.”
Thoughts:
As we sit by our firesides, as we unpack our decorations and deck our halls, as we light our Advent candles, are we aware of peace? Or are we “worried over many things”? Are we distracted by our merry making so that we overlook the greatest part of the gift that God gave us in Christ? Peace. God has given us peace and reconciliation with Himself, and that peace can beget peace with each other. A harmony in life and with the universe that nothing else can give us.
Are we neglecting it while we center on those things that anger us? Those things that cause us discontent? At the base of peace is faith in God’s providence, as well as our own gratefulness in the many gifts that He has already given us. Think back over the fruit of the Spirit…love….joy…faith…self-control.. these things add to and are increased by peace with God. A life that is at home with God is a life that has steadiness and peace that shelters us from being destroyed by the storms of troubled times. Isn’t that more important than stuff? Or what others think of us? Or even getting our own way?
There is a lot of talk about peace and how much people desire it, but what are we doing about the gift of peace that God has already given us? The Prince of Peace who is to rule in our hearts and lives.
His name is Jesus. And we are celebrating Him this season. Peace be with you as you do this.
Activity:
Make a list of the things you are thankful for. Make another for the things that you will be try to be content about. Let your heart be at peace with God today, ask Christ to make His home in your heart and give you the peace and reconciliation you need with God. Make a determination to be an instrument of harmony in your home this season.
Let there be peace on earth
And let it begin with me.
Let there be peace on earth
The peace that was meant to be.
With God as our Father
Brothers all are we.
Let me walk with my brother
In perfect harmony.Let peace begin with me
Let this be the moment now.
With every step I take
Let this be my solemn vow.
To take each moment
And live each moment
With peace eternally.
Let there be peace on earth,
And let it begin with me.
